Addicted to the Duke: An Imperfect Lords Novel

'Addicted to the Duke" by Bronwen Evans is the First book in the New Series "Imperfect Lords". This is the story of Alexander Sylvester Bracken, Duke of Bedford and Lady Hestia Cary. Hestia was kidnapped with she was 16 years of age and was going to be raped and taking as a slave if not for Alex. The man that was going to hurt Hestia was once his captor..the man got Alex hooded on drugs and went along with allot of what that man used to do as his slave. But no more and he is now there to save Hestia. About 4 years later we find Alex is now the Duke of Bedford and tries to avoid Hestia. Alex knows that Hestia has feelings for him but feels she is to good for him. So he has been pulling away from her until he is called to her house. There he learns her father is possibly dead and that Hestia and her Aunt want his help finding her father. Hestia explains that her father's heir is saying that her father is dead and he is now taking over. In addition with her father's death she inherits money from her mother's estate. Which has put her in danger of being forced to marry or killed. Alex has agreed to go look for her father and she is planning to go with him. It was hard for me to put this book down. I wanted to see how their story would play out. This was another great story by Ms. Evans. "My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."

As any good story that has pirates should be, ADDICTED TO THE DUKE is a wild ride. Bronwyn Evans kept me captivated from the start with this adventurous tale of Dukes and Lords, Pirates and Sultans, danger and deception, and love and honor that starts in London and sails to the Greek Islands. There were many twists and setbacks as the hero and heroine, Alexander Bracken, the Duke of Bedford and Lady Hestia Cary fought for their lives and for their love... repeatedly. Both characters were strong-willed and determined, and not always in agreement. Alex didn't believe he was capable of love and would never be deserving of Hestia's love. Hestia knew she could never love another. As in all good romances, love wins in the end and the journey to that end is well worth the read. 4 stars ~Complimentary copy downloaded from NetGalley.All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Addicted to the Duke by Bronwen Evans is #1 in what promises to be an intriguing new series, "Imperfect Lords". Bronwen Evans continues to write, a brilliantly and masterfully work of romance! Such feelings and emotions shown throughout this powerful and compelling story, are hard to convene to readers. But she managed it, beautifully. Very impressive! I loved Alex, his desire to survive, his revenge was well deserved, and his feelings of not being worthy was honest, and true feelings. I understand how people who have been or seen such abuse, could face such feelings. It addresses the inner turmoil of such things and how love can heal their wounds. Well done! It also addresses the issues of drug abuse and disabilities, tactfully and honestly. Alex defintely deserved a life of love and happiness. He did not deserve to feel shame for his misfortune, especially, since it was not his fault. To live in captivity for two years and survive, made him a better man, and helped to shape him into the man became. Hestia was loveable, feisty, fearless, admirable, and very stubborn, albeit a bit naive, but she was determined to get her man. She also understood Alex, for what he was, not what he thought he should be, for people to respect him, and love him for himself. I think her love for Alex made her a bit reckless, at times. I liked how Hestia stood by Alex at all cost, even at her own risk. She was very determined to save her man. I loved how Alex and Hestia, managed to push past their fears, insecurities, and their past to find healing, love, and just maybe a HEA. I think "Addicted to the Duke" was an emotionally charged tale. One that deals with issues of sexual and drug abuse, as well as, opium addiction. Ms. Evans did a wonderful job writing about tough issues that are quiet common in today's world. Readers will be able to connect to Alex and Hestia's story. I certainly did! I know people who faced the same issues as Alex, some gave into the addiction for the oblivion it brought, others was overcome and couldn't let it go. Sexual abuse, rather, male or female is devastating to all. I read "Addicted to the Duke" in one day. I couldn’t put it down. I was glued to the pages of Alex and Hestia's story, from the first page to the last. A must read Historical Romance. I can't wait to read the book 2 in the "Imperfect Lords" series, they are certainly going to be, imperfect, flawed but oh so lovable. A must read Historical Romance. I received a complimentary copy. Rating: 5 Heat rating: Hot Reviewed by: AprilR